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Whether you like the idea of having a one-of-a-kind landscape or make an effort to recycle whenever you can, using materials that are lying around your garage or basement to build a fence is a budget- and environmentally-friendly way to add character to your yard. It's also a project that allows you to get creative because you can use a number of items for effective fencing. The key is determining which type of fence you need because a privacy fence requires solid materials while a decorative fence can have an open design.

Pallets

Wooden shipping pallets work well for recycled fencing because they look similar to a traditional wooden fence. Use pallets that are in good condition and check those you're planning to recycle for signs of mold or other damage that might weaken the fence. Dry hardwood makes effective posts for a pallet fence, and you can cut or partially disassemble the pallets in any way you want to create a decorative look for the fencing. Removing every other board from the front of the pallets and all of the boards from the back is one of the more common ways to use them. To ensure that your pallet fencing lasts, use a sealer or preservative to protect it from the elements. You can also paint or stain it if you want a more eye-catching look.

Tin Ceiling Tiles

If you want a fence that makes an artistic statement, get your hands on some old tin ceiling tiles. Vintage ceiling tiles are available at thrift stores, antique shops and online auction sites. They come in a range of colors and usually feature raised designs that give them an interesting texture. The ceiling tiles don't have to match -- the beauty of using them for your fence is that you can create a patchwork effect that adds a whimsical look to your landscape. You will need to use lumber to create a frame for the ceiling tiles, but recycled or reclaimed pieces work well if you want the entire fence to be made from reused materials.

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Windows

Old windows can serve as a garden fence. You can use the windows with the glass panes still in place or use the frames by themselves for open-style fencing. The trick to repurposing windows for your fence is finding frames that are all the same size, which is why window fencing works best for shorter fences where you won't need as many frames to create the fence. If you can't find enough windows in the same size to enclose your entire garden, try alternating large and small frames to create a decorative edge for the top of the fence. Screw the frames for each section of fencing together and add posts to install it as you would a traditional fence.

Glass Bottles

If you want to create a truly striking fence, gather up all the bottles that you've been planning to recycle. Glass bottles can become surprisingly effective fencing materials when you pair them with rebar. While you can use any bottles, colored glass usually provides the most interesting look. Drill holes in the bottles, which can be tricky, so use a special glass-cutting drill bit and work slowly to avoid cracking the glass. Once you have holes in the bottles, stack them on rebar that you've cut to right height. You can use reclaimed lumber for the frame or use additional rebar to serve as the frame. Glass bottles create a lovely effect because they reflect light, but plastic bottles are lightweight and easier to work with.

References

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About the Author

Based in New York City, Jennifer Blair has been covering all things home and garden since 2001. Her writing has appeared on BobVila.com, World Lifestyle, and House Logic. Blair holds a Bachelor of Arts in Writing Seminars from the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.